Building Permit FAQs

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If you are looking for help obtaining a Building Permit from Code HQ, here are a few FAQs to help you understand the process and requirements:

How long does a Building Permit take to obtain?

Building permits are usually assessed within 5 working days for small projects and within 10 working days for large projects. Very large or complex jobs may take longer than this, in which case the Surveyor will notify you and do their best to work within the timeframe given.

What are Building Surveyors?

Building Surveyors evaluate and assess plans, conduct inspections and issue Building Permits. Building Surveyors are responsible for ensuring buildings are safe, energy efficient, accessible and meet all legal requirements.

What is a Building Permit?

A Building Permit, also known as a Construction Permit, is a document issued by a Registered Building Surveyor to signify that the plans and documentation for a proposed building work meets the requirements of the Building Code of Australia, The Building Act 1993 and the Building Regulations 2018.


The Building Permit, also for commercial buildings, provides approval for work to commence and is required for most new buildings, major renovations, extensions, alterations and demolitions. A Building Permit is also necessary for commercial buildings.

What is the price of a Building Permit?

The price of a Building Permit always depends on the nature of the building project. The cost is determined by the size, scale and complexity of the proposed project. To get a free, no obligations quote for your project, get in touch with Code HQ today.

Why are Building Permits required?

Building Permits are required:


  • To ensure buildings are constructed to comply with the Building Code of Australia, The Building Act 1993 and the Building Regulations 2018.
  • To independently check that all documentation has been completed and meets with the regulations.
  • To verify that building practitioners are registered and appropriately insured.
  • To ensure key stages of the building works meet the necassary Building Legislation.


The Building Act 1993 prescribes a penalty of large fines for property owners who undertake works without a Building Permit, where convicted of such an offence.


Building Permits provide standards for the construction and maintenance of buildings and ensure the safety of the people who use them.

When is a Building Permit required?

A Building Permit is required for most building works including but not limited to:


  • New construction
  • Structural alterations and repairs
  • Additions to existing structures
  • Alterations that change the use, size or height of a building
  • Retaining walls and fences


You can apply for a Building Permit after your plans and structural details are completed.

Who Issues Building Permits?

Building Surveyors such as Code HQ who have a current and relevant registration.

What does the Building Permit process entail?

Once we have been engaged to approve a Building Permit, we will:


  • Identify any restrictions that may apply to the building site
  • Ensure the plans comply with the Building Code of Australia, The Building Act 1993 and the Building Regulations 2018 and any other related guidelines and standards.
  • If the plans are satisfactory and all required documents are provided we will then issue a Building Permit.

Why use Code HQ for your Building Permit?

Our Building Surveyors have the resources, experience, expertise and training to help you interpret and understand Building Legislation.

Building Legislation can be complex and is frequently changing. We've been issuing Building Permits for over 16 years, so you can be sure you're receiving thorough and trusted advice. We can:


  • Advise you on how to comply with building legislation, regulations and requirements
  • Provide accurate and trusted information on exemptions or concessions your project may be eligible for.
  • Help identify and action any potential planning problems that have potential to cause delays.
  • Save you time quickly identifying areas that are likely to cause you delays.

What are Mandatory Building Inspections?

Mandatory Inspections are required during construction of new, renovated or extended buildings.

After a Building Permit has been issued, the building works may be inspected at the major milestones, including but not limited to:


  • Pre slab
  • Foundations and/or stump holes
  • Steel reinforcing in your slab or footings
  • Framework (timber and/or steel)
  • Swimming pool and spa safety barriers
  • Final inspection upon completion of all works


The actual number and type of inspections required will vary depending on the construction methods and size of your project.

How long does a Building Permit last for?

Building permits in Victoria are valid for different lengths of time according to the type of construction. While any building work must start within 12 months of the permit issue date, residential works have 24 months to be completed, commercial works have 36 months for completion, and swimming pools and fences have 6 months for completion.

Works Must Start Works Completion*
Residential/Domestic Works (excl. Swimming Pools and Spas) (incl. Sheds, Garages and Carports etc) Within 12 months of Building Permit issue date Within 24 months of Building Permit issue date
Swimming Pools & Barriers or Fences Within 12 months of Building Permit issue date Within 6 months of project commencement
Commercial Works Within 12 months of Building Permit issue date Within 36 months of Building Permit issue date

The works completion date is calculated from the Building Permit issue date.


The Relevant Building Surveyor may agree to extend your Building Permit in certain circumstances provided you apply for the extension before the current Building Permit lapses.

For any questions you may have regarding acquiring a Shed Permit, visit our Shed Permit Requirements Guide.

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